Bisquit & Dubouché Cognac VSOP (70cl, 40%)

A VSOP Cognac made from eaux-de-vie drawn almost exclusively from Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Fins Bois and Bons Bois, matured for at least four years in French oak casks. The house was founded by Alexandre Bisquit in 1819, with Adrien Dubouché joining as partner in 1846, and is based in a château in the centre of Cognac. Production includes distillation on the lees and double distillation in traditional copper Charentais stills, with a longer heart cut intended to bring more aromatic components into the spirit. The nose combines dried apricot and honey with cinnamon and clove, plus a fine rose note. The palate is soft and round, with honeysuckle, citrus fruit, mango and pear. The finish is long, with leather, nuts, wood and rancio more prominent in the aftertaste.